This April 24, 2005, file photo shows Vatican master of Ceremonies Archbishop Piero Marini, not pictured, adjusting the skullcap of Pope Benedict XVI during his installation Mass in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. Netizens expressed their shock and sadness as news broke Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, that Pope Benedict XVI would resign by the end of February, topping the list of trending topics almost immediately. AP PHOTO/PIER PAOLO CITO

MANILA, Philippines—Netizens took to microblogging site Twitter to express their shock and sadness as news broke Monday night that Pope Benedict XVI would resign by the end of February, topping the list of trending topics almost immediately.

As of 7:30 p.m. on Monday, “Pope Benedict XVI” was the top trending topic in the Philippines, while #Pope, Feb. 28, Joseph Ratzinger, Habemus Papam and Pontificado were also among the top trending topics worldwide.

The reactions were a mix of surprise, sadness and hope.

Some users were surprised to learn that resignation was an option for a Pope. Said Twitter user @mblades_ysp: “Odd to hear that the Pope has announced his resignation. Will be waiting to hear who is replacing him.”

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http://profile.yahoo.com/NXV3F6YUQWDOA4HPYOFN5F2N3U Danyel

Ang pa- plastic nagmumurahan naman paglabas ng simbahan…..

victor1052

If only terribly corrupt politicians like maceda and enrile would just really resign from politics, the Philippines would be a happier place to live in. Seems like death, not senility, could stop these shameless holdouts from making our lives miserable.